Quito, Ecuador
La Floresta is the bohemian neighborhood with cafes, art galleries, and a creative crowd. Safe during the day and early evening. Eating alone is common, and the artistic vibe feels welcoming.
La Floresta has been Quito's bohemian area since 1917. The neighborhood has cafes, galleries, small theaters, and restaurants with an artistic crowd. You'll see people working on laptops in cafes or lingering over long brunches - eating alone doesn't stand out here. There's street art on many walls, and the cafe culture is strong. It's normal to spend hours at a table with just coffee and a book. English is common in restaurants and bars since the area gets expats and international visitors. Tree-lined streets stay active until late with decent lighting and police around. Main streets like Avenida Isabel La Católica feel safe during evenings, but don't wander down empty side streets after 10pm. The vibe is young and creative.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Good"Comfortable eating alone in cafes - lots of people do it"
"Good neighborhood if you're traveling alone - plenty of others working or reading by themselves"
"Safe to walk around during the day and early evening"
"Cafe staff are friendly and many speak English"
"Feels more authentic than La Carolina but still safe and modern"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
La Carolina is the modern business district with a large park, upscale dining, and good safety. Quieter at night and more expensive, but works if you want a calm, secure base.
González Suárez is the upscale residential area with volcano views, good dining, and strong safety. Quiet with limited nightlife and no public transport. Works for those prioritizing safety and willing to pay more.
La Mariscal is the backpacker zone with international restaurants, tour agencies, and nightlife around Plaza Foch. Fine during the day but has real safety problems at night - pickpocketing, drink spiking scams, muggings. Only go out after dark in groups and use taxis.
Help other women stay safe in La Floresta
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.